Dubai: New legislation enforces use of green cement for all new buildings

Landlords and contractors must now use green cement for the construction of new buildings in Dubai as part of a strategy to protect the environment and reduce gas emissions, an official was quoted on Monday as saying.

A new legislation forcing all landlords, contractors and consultancy companies to use this environment-friendly substance will be enforced on April 1, Dubai Municipality Director Hussein Lootah told local newspapers.

He said the decision is intended to protect the environment by reducing emissions of carbon dioxide and other toxic gases.

“The municipality will inspect new construction sites and check the cement used in buildings after the decision is enforced. Using green cement will be a pre-requisite for granting construction permission,” he said.

Another municipal official said companies failing to abide by the new decision will be stopped and penalised.

“Besides depriving them from construction permission, violating companies will be fined,” said Ahmed Al Badwawi, studies director at the municipality.

Green cement, which was developed in Germany nearly three years ago, is material that meets or exceeds the functional performance capabilities of ordinary Portland cement by incorporating and optimising recycled materials, thereby reducing consumption of natural raw materials, water, and energy, resulting in a more sustainable construction material.